Growing Pains Star Alan Thicke Dead at 69

Alan Thicke passed away due to a heart attack, a publicist for the Thicke family confirmed to NBC News. He was 69.

According to TMZ who first broke the news, the actor had a heart attack while he was playing hockey with his 19-year-old son, Carter. He was transported to Providence St. Joseph’s Medical Center around noon local time and was pronounced dead at the hospital.

The actor is survived by his wife Tanya Thicke and his three children including Carter, Brennan and singer Robin Thicke.

Fans will remember the actor for his role as Dr. Jason Seaver in the long-running series Growing Pains. He also appeared in The Bold and the Beautiful, How I Met Your Mother and most recently Fuller House.

Just hours before the news broke, the actor expressed his excitement at the show’s new season on Twitter. “Season 2 Fuller House looking good,” a Twitter post read. “I even like the ones I’m not in! #fullerhouse @fullhouseguy @bobsaget @candacecbure #netflix.”

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The actor also recently attended the Whistler Film Festival in Canada where he accepted the Icon Award. The celebration occurred around Dec. 4.

“Alan was healthy and his heart attack was a complete shock,” a source shared with E! News. “Robin is devastated and surrounded by loved ones.”

As soon as the news broke, past and present co-stars immediately began expressing their condolences online. “So sad is the passing of Alan Thicke. Such a good husband, father, brother, and friend,” Fuller House co-star Bob Saget shared online. “He will be deeply missed. Rest in peace dear Alan.”

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Thicke family during this difficult time.